First Annual 'Rejoice in Art!' Event Brings New Fine Art Fair to the South Bay, October 16-17

In an all-new community event coming this fall, Rejoice in Art! will debut October 16-17 at Riviera UMC, 375 Palos Verdes Blvd., Redondo Beach. The free public event begins with a juried art show, opening reception and musical concert on Friday evening, and continues on Saturday with an indoor/outdoor art fair featuring local artist booths, painting demonstrations, classes for the kids, food and live entertainment.

“We are pleased to bring this dynamic new art event to the community,” said Lynn Attig, director, Rejoice in Art! “The goal of the fair and the juried exhibition is to rejoice in the beauty and inspiration of our ocean-side environment and to celebrate and showcase the many talented fine artists who live here.”

On Friday, October 16, from 5 to 7 p.m., the public is invited to view more than sixty original paintings on display at the opening reception of “An Ocean View.” This exclusive juried exhibition features seascapes by California fine artists up and down the coast, many from the South Bay, Torrance and Palos Verdes areas. Following the reception, from 7:30 to 9 p.m., Dawn Brooks & Friends will present “The Colors of Music,” the first of Riviera UMC’s 2015-2016 free concert series.

Entries in “An Ocean View” have been juried in by Master Oil and Pastel Artist Joseph Mancuso of Torrance (www.mancusofineart.com). Esteemed Mural Artist Steven Shriver of Rancho Palos Verdes (www.steveshriver.com) will serve as awards judge. (After opening weekend, the exhibition will continue until the end of October during select gallery hours.)

The next day, Saturday, October 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the public is invited to experience a one-day art fair featuring more than thirty artists in tents and booths displaying their original art for viewing and purchase in a family-friendly, fun atmosphere. A variety of artistic talents will be represented, ranging from paintings to ceramics, mosaics, jewelry, photography, textiles and more.

A free oil-painting demonstration will be offered during the fair on Saturday, 11 a.m., by artist David Wolfram. Live musical entertainment will be provided by the Hollywood Clarinet Quartet at 2 p.m. Additional festivities include an opportunity drawing for original artwork donated by the booth artists at 4 p.m., along with all-day kids’ art instruction and show by Canvas & Clay, Redondo Beach.

All Rejoice in Art! activities include free admission and free parking, purchasable box lunches, refreshments and a homemade gifts/goods boutique. Box lunches can be purchased for $10 in advance or $12 at the door.

Net proceeds from the event benefit Riviera UMC’s mission projects (including low-income feeding programs and Toberman Neighborhood Center), along with its art and music programs. Riviera UMC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

“We encourage people of all ages to come enjoy this unique event and support area artists, as well as benefit local mission projects in the community,” Attig said.

For more information, including profiles of the artists, box lunch pre-ordering, and a complete schedule of events, visit www.rejoiceinart.com.